KTT Mint vs. TKC Tangerine
An in-depth look at the KTT Mint and the TKC Tangerine switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, two popular options that come to mind are the KTT Mint and the TKC Tangerine. The Mint is best known for its satisfyingly smooth linear switch, which provides a poppy thockiness sensation while typing. With a light and fleeting type feel, this switch falls into the category of being low-pitched, neutral, mild, and polished. On the other hand, the Tangerine is praised for taking the typing experience to the next level with its incredibly smooth feel. Each keystroke is a pleasure thanks to the UHWMPE housings, which are a rarity among bespoke mechanical switches. While typing on this switch, a fairly high-pitched clack is experienced. The Tangerine switch can be described as frictionless, buttery, high-pitched, and polished. Both switches have their unique characteristics and advantages. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the perfect switch for your needs.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
45g
Actuation force
N/A
Bottom-out force
53g
Bottom-out force
62g
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
UHWMPE
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
UHWMPE
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
15mm spring
Spring
Gold coated spring
Housing materials
The KTT Mint and the TKC Tangerine differ in their choice of housing materials. The Mint features a polycarbonate top housing, while the Tangerine utilizes a UHWMPE top housing. Polycarbonate is known for creating a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile, thanks to its relatively stiffer plastic nature. On the other hand, UHWMPE provides a very bright sound signature, offering resonant clacks when typing. In terms of aesthetics, polycarbonate's translucency makes it ideal for switches with RGB lighting, while UHWMPE may not offer the same visual effect.
Moving on to the bottom housing, the Mint's nylon material differs from the Tangerine's UHWMPE bottom housing. Nylon is considered a classic switch housing material, providing a deeper and fuller sound profile when typing. Its relatively softer plastic absorbs more sound, resulting in a duller and rounder sound. Meanwhile, the UHWMPE bottom housing of the Tangerine, being a newer material, contributes to its bright sound signature and resonant clacks.
It's important to note that when top and bottom housings differ in a switch, the qualities each material brings will be split between the two parts. In terms of typing experience, the bottom housing has more impact on the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing influences the sound when letting go of a key. So, while the Mint and Tangerine may have different housing materials, the impact these materials have on the overall typing experience may lead to similar results depending on the preference of the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the KTT Mint linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, there are a few notable differences. The Mint has an actuation force of 45 grams, providing a relatively light touch to trigger a keystroke. On the other hand, the actuation force of the Tangerine switch is currently unknown. Moving on to the bottom out force, the Mint has a slightly higher bottom out force of 53 grams, while the Tangerine switch requires a heavier push with a bottom out force of 62 grams.
Considering weight, there are individuals who prefer a lighter actuation force, as it allows them to type for extended periods without experiencing fatigue. This makes it ideal for those who use their keyboards for work or engage in long gaming sessions. Alternatively, some users prefer a heavier push for a more substantial typing experience, and for them, options with heavier forces are more suitable.
In terms of weight, the KTT Mint linear switch is lighter in both actuation force and bottom out force compared to the TKC Tangerine linear switch. However, since the actuation force of the Tangerine switch is currently unavailable, it is difficult to make an exact comparison. It is worth noting that individuals seeking a similar result in terms of actuation force and bottom out force may still find a satisfactory experience with the Tangerine switch if its actuation force aligns closely with the Mint's medium-light touch. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preferences for typing feel and the desired level of force required for keystrokes.
Travel distance
The KTT Mint linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch have the same travel distance of 4 mm. This means that when you press down on a key with either of these switches, you will experience the same distance of travel. Both switches offer a consistent and tactile feel when typing, making them suitable choices for users who prefer a shorter travel distance. Whether you opt for the KTT Mint or the TKC Tangerine, you can expect similar results in terms of the distance the switches travel from the top to the bottom.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
For 10 switches, the KTT Mint comes in at $2.91, whereas the TKC Tangerine comes in at $6.30.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When comparing the subjective qualities of the KTT Mint linear switch and the TKC Tangerine linear switch, the sound produced by the switches is distinct. The Mint is known for its low-pitched sound, which offers a more bass-heavy and mellow tone. This sound profile is suitable for most intents and purposes, making it a versatile option for both beginners and advanced users. On the other hand, the Tangerine produces a high-pitched sound that is sharp and crisp. This switch is ideal for those who prefer a more rich and bassy sound profile. However, it is important to note that the sound of the switches can also be influenced by other factors such as the keyboard board and keycaps chosen.
In terms of feel, both switches offer a smooth and refined typing experience. The Mint switch is described as mild, providing a gentle typing experience that falls within a safe, middle-ground zone. Additionally, it features a polished finish, resulting in reduced friction and smooth key travel. The Tangerine switch, on the other hand, offers a frictionless and buttery typing experience. This means that it minimizes any sense of resistance or friction, providing a fluid and effortless key press. Like the Mint, the Tangerine switch also features a polished finish for reduced friction and smooth key travel.
Based on the available information, the Mint and Tangerine switches have their own unique qualities. The Mint offers a satisfyingly smooth linear switch with a light and fleeting type feel. Its sound is low-pitched and it provides a mild and polished typing experience. On the other hand, the Tangerine offers an incredibly smooth linear switch that elevates the typing experience. It produces a high-pitched sound and offers a frictionless and buttery typing feel, also with a polished finish. While they differ in certain aspects, both switches provide a smooth, refined, and enjoyable typing experience. Depending on personal preferences, either switch can deliver similar results in terms of sound and feel.
Conclusion
To sum up, if you are looking for a satisfyingly smooth linear switch with a light and fleeting typing feel, the KTT Mint would be a great choice for you. It offers a medium-light bottom out force of 53 grams and is known for its poppy thockiness due to its long pole stem. The Mint also has a low-pitched sound profile and a mild and polished feel, providing a gentle and approachable typing experience.
On the other hand, if you want to take your typing experience to the next level and prefer an incredibly smooth feel, the TKC Tangerine linear switch would be a perfect fit. With a medium bottom out force of 62 grams, the Tangerine offers a high-pitched sound profile, producing a sharp and crisp sound when pressed. It is also described as frictionless, buttery, and polished, ensuring a smooth, effortless, and uniform typing sensation.
Ultimately, the choice between the KTT Mint and the TKC Tangerine depends on your personal preferences. If you prefer a lighter and more fleeting typing feel with a low-pitched sound profile, go for the Mint. However, if you prioritize an incredibly smooth typing experience with a high-pitched sound profile, the Tangerine would be the better option for you.
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